Great post once again @gavvet. I agree with you.
I like that you mentioned "Some may get away with less work, but that generally comes at the expense of others"
Whatever kind of work you do–whether you’re self-employed, working for someone else, or something in between–if autonomy, complexity, and a connection between effort and reward are present, it’s my belief you have a much better chance of making your work meaningful.
And if you can find meaning in your work, you’re well on your way to being the best possible version of yourself.